Civil Engineering Association

THE PURPOSE OF THIS BOOK

When Frankipile South Africa first published "The Guide" in 1976 the main purpose was to create a practical reference on all aspects of soil investigation and piling as carried out by the company in Southern Africa at that time. Judging from the popularity of the first edition this objective was achieved and most design engineers in Southern Africa have a copy on their bookshelves.

The second edition was published in 1986 as an update of the first and it was equally popular. This, the third edition, is in fact a re-write of the book as Frankipile has expanded its activities into soil improvement and lateral support as well as environmental engineering. The name of the Guide has thus changed to include all aspects of Geotechnical Engineering as carried out by the Company in Southern Africa.

The purpose of the book, however, remains the same; it is a reference with a wealth of practical information on geotechnical topics which we are confident all those who receive a copy will find extremely useful. The contents of this book are presented in good faith. As in all geotechnical design the methods and data presented in the book must be interpreted and used with a degree of knowledge, experience and judgement. Frankipile South Africa (Pty) Ltd does not hold itself in any way responsible for any inaccuracies or errors in the book or for any interpretation thereof by persons other than its own employees.

The company acknowledges, with appreciation, the contribution by Messrs. OVE ARUP & PARTNERS to the section on pilecap design.